The German midfielder, 32, has been left out by Mourinho this season, and his compatriot has sprung to his defence.

“What happened to [Schweinsteiger] is unfair,” Podolski told Bild. “It is not correct to deport Basti to the second team. A coach must always keep the doors open to all players and especially to players like Schweini.”

Schweinsteiger made it clear prior to the end of the summer transfer window that he has no intention of playing for another team in Europe, but Podolski believes the MLS could be an intriguing option.

“I think America is great. Moving abroad is good for personality development and it would also be good for our children,” added Podolski.

“Clearly it would be possible to play with Schweinsteiger in the States.”​